Music allow children who are visually impaired to express themselves

Music is a different way to express himself for a visually impaired child.

Music is an exciting way for any child to express himself and that at any age. Through the use of music, you can study and learn about traditions, cultures, composers, instruments, dance and so much more. As any other child, teaching music to a visually impaired child is a gift as it allows him or her to express emotions, opinions and appreciation.

When you teach music to a visually impaired child, you should keep the following tips in mind so the experience becomes a positive one instead of one affected by frustration.

• First, let him discover an instrument by touch.

• Second, let him discover the variety of sounds on their own.

• Third, let him discover a variety of instruments.

• Fourth, let him hear a variety of musical partitions with each of these instruments.

• Fifth, show him patiently how to position his hands or fingers on an instrument of his choice so he can produce specific notes.

• Sixth, when he is familiar with the notes, let him experiment with timing and rythmn by introducing them slowly, allowing him to learn and master them before going further.

• Seventh, if your student can visually read music with special resources, you can always use a software program on the computer to make the written music bigger or you may photocopy bigger partitions. Avoid coloured paper. If he is unable to read music even with special resources, use the sounds and practice time to allow him to learn the music.

If you follow these steps, both your student and you will make music a rewarding experience.